Traditional ryokans dominate the Utsukushigahara Onsen district, offering authentic Japanese experiences near Matsumoto. Oiwakeya Ryokan stands out as our favorite, thanks to its private hot spring baths and exceptional service standards. Shoho Ryokan impresses with its mountain-facing rooms and luxurious hot springs. We love the historic Izumiya Zenbe for its outstanding kaiseki meals and genuine tatami rooms. Both Momoyama and Marunaka Ryokan earn our recommendation for their excellent hospitality and convenient location near Matsumoto Castle. Let’s explore our top accommodations in Utsukushigahara Onsen.
Good To Know
- Shoho Ryokan offers Japanese-style rooms, indoor and outdoor hot-spring baths, sauna, and shuttle service from Matsumoto Station.
- Izumiya Zenbe is a historic ryokan with tatami-matted rooms, indoor/outdoor hot springs, and delicious Japanese-style meals.
- Momoyama Ryokan provides traditional Japanese-style rooms, free private parking, free WiFi, and a hot spring bath.
- Marunaka Ryokan features Japanese-style rooms with futon beds, free private parking, and access to a public bath and hot spring.
- Oiwakeya Ryokan is highly rated for its exceptional service, beautiful rooms, and private onsen experience, though it has tattoo restrictions.
Oiwakeya Ryokan
Situated in the scenic town of Matsumoto, Nagano, Oiwakeya Ryokan offers guests a unique ryokan experience.
This 4-star hotel is located just 5.2 km from Matsumoto Station and 3.3 km from the iconic Matsumoto Castle. Guests can enjoy the nearby hot springs and relax in the ryokan’s air-conditioned units, equipped with modern amenities like wardrobes, kettles, fridges, and private bathrooms.
With a superb rating of 9.3 from 71 reviews, the ryokan is praised for its exceptional service, beautiful rooms, and delicious Japanese meals. Theres some good the private onsen experience and explore the property’s garden and sun terrace.
However, those with tattoos may face restrictions in the public bathing areas.
Read Our Full Review: Oiwakeya Ryokan Review
Book Now: Check Price & Reserve For Free
Shoho Ryokan : A Relaxing Getaway
Located in the scenic Utsukushigahara hot-spring area, Shoho Ryokan offers travelers a relaxing getaway in Matsumoto, Nagano.
This traditional ryokan features various room types, including Japanese-style rooms and deluxe options with private bathrooms. Guests can enjoy the indoor and outdoor hot-spring baths, sauna, and other amenities like karaoke rooms and bicycle rentals.
The ryokan provides a free shuttle service from the JR Matsumoto Train Station and is conveniently located, just a 15-minute drive from Matsumoto Castle and a 5-minute drive from the Matsumoto Folkcraft Museum.
Reviewers praise the exceptional service, delicious meals, and stunning mountain views, making Shoho Ryokan a top choice for a relaxing stay in the Utsukushigahara area.
Izumiya Zenbe
Izumiya Zenbe, a historic Japanese-style ryokan, stands as another notable lodging option in the scenic Utsukushigahara hot-spring area.
Established in 1876, this ryokan offers a traditional experience with its tatami-matted rooms, futon bedding, and indoor/outdoor hot springs. Guests can savor Japanese-style multi-course meals and hearty breakfasts on-site.
Conveniently located, the ryokan is a 15-minute bus ride from JR Matsumoto Station and 10 minutes from Matsumoto Castle. With an 8.9 rating from 67 reviews, Izumiya Zenbe is praised for its excellent staff, clean facilities, and overall comfort.
While children are welcome, those 7 and older are charged as adults, and pets aren’t allowed. Nonetheless, this ryokan provides a serene and authentic taste of Japanese hospitality.
Read Our Full Review: Izumiya Zenbe Review
Book Now: Check Price & Reserve For Free
Momoyama
Momoyama, a 2-star ryokan, resides in the Utsukushigahara Onsen district of Matsumoto, Nagano.
It’s situated 6.3 km from Matsumoto Station and offers a free shuttle service. Guests can enjoy traditional Japanese-style rooms with tatami flooring, air conditioning, and TVs.
The ryokan provides free private parking, free WiFi, and family rooms. Visitors can relax in the hot spring bath and garden.
Momoyama’s dining service is a popular choice due to its exceptional breakfast and dinner, with generous portions and memorable culinary experiences.
With an overall rating of 8.9 from 95 guest reviews, the ryokan is praised for its attentive staff, cleanliness, and comfort.
Guests appreciate the stunning views, quality of food, and traditional Japanese hospitality.
Read Our Full Review: Momoyama Review
Book Now: Check Price & Reserve For Free
Marunaka Ryokan
Situated 3.4 miles from Matsumoto Station, Marunaka Ryokan is a 3-star ryokan that offers visitors a traditional Japanese experience.
The ryokan features Japanese-style rooms with futon beds, ranging from a standard 3-bed layout to a superior 5-bed room. Guests can enjoy amenities like free private parking, Wi-Fi, and access to the public bath and hot spring.
While children over 10 are welcome, the ryokan doesn’t provide cribs or extra beds. Smoking and pets are prohibited. Rates include a daily heating fee from December to March, and guests with tattoos may have limited access to bathing areas.
Read Our Full Review: Marunaka Ryokan Review
Book Now: Check Price & Reserve For Free
Hotel New Kotobuki
Nestled in the geothermal area of Matsumoto, Hotel New Kotobuki is a 3-star ryokan that offers guests a traditional Japanese lodging experience.
Located 5.5 km from Matsumoto Station and 16 km from Matsumoto Airport, the property provides air-conditioned rooms with quiet street views, free private parking, and free WiFi.
Guests can enjoy the on-site open-air bath, public bath, and hot spring bath. Highly rated for its staff, cleanliness, comfort, and value, the ryokan serves a Japanese breakfast and dinner.
Additional amenities include a minimarket and designated smoking area. While cots/extra beds are unavailable and guests with tattoos may face restrictions, the property offers luggage storage, laundry, and meeting/banquet facilities for an additional charge.
Read Our Full Review: Hotel New Kotobuki Review
Book Now: Check Price & Reserve For Free
The Sum Up
Utsukushigahara Onsen in Matsumoto offers a range of accommodations to suit various preferences. From traditional ryokans like Oiwakeya and Marunaka to more modern hotels like New Kotobuki, visitors can find the perfect place to relax and enjoy the natural hot springs. Whether seeking a cozy, intimate atmosphere or contemporary amenities, these top-rated options provide an exceptional onsen experience in the serene Utsukushigahara region.